Pembroke Yard Waste Removal Services

Coordinating Yard Waste Removal with Pembroke’s Department of Public Works

Yard waste removal in Pembroke is managed through the Department of Public Works (DPW), which oversees curbside collection and transfer station operations. Residents must adhere to the town’s collection schedule, typically running from April through November, with pickups occurring every other week. Yard waste must be placed in biodegradable paper bags or open barrels (no plastic bags permitted) and set curbside by 7:00 AM on collection days. Acceptable materials include grass clippings, leaves, and small branches (less than 4 feet in length and 4 inches in diameter). Oversized branches, stumps, and soil are not accepted curbside and must be brought to the transfer station. Proof of residency, such as a Pembroke-issued sticker or utility bill, is required for access. Fees may apply for large loads or non-standard items. For up-to-date schedules and accepted materials, consult the Pembroke Department of Public Works.

Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1400
Official Website: Department of Public Works

Pembroke’s Yard Waste Disposal Regulations and Environmental Compliance

Pembroke enforces strict yard waste disposal regulations to comply with Massachusetts’ landfill bans and environmental mandates. Under state law, yard waste is prohibited from landfill disposal and must be composted or processed separately. Residents are required to separate yard waste from household trash and recycling. The town’s transfer station accepts yard waste for composting during posted hours, and improper disposal may result in code violations or fines. Key compliance points include:

• No plastic bags: Only paper bags or open barrels are accepted
• No mixed loads: Yard waste must not be combined with trash or recyclables
• Prohibited materials: Soil, rocks, and treated wood are not accepted as yard waste
• Transfer station hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; resident permit required
• Fees: $10 minimum per load for non-standard items

For more information on state landfill bans, visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Boston, MA
Phone: (617) 292-5500
Official Website: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Permit Requirements and Code Enforcement for Yard Waste Removal in Pembroke

Certain yard waste removal activities in Pembroke require permits or advance coordination with municipal departments. Large-scale removals, such as those resulting from land clearing or storm damage, may necessitate a right-of-way permit if debris is staged on public property. Residents and contractors must:

• Obtain a permit from the DPW for street or sidewalk obstruction
• Schedule large debris drop-offs with the transfer station in advance
• Adhere to noise ordinances (work hours typically 7:00 AM–7:00 PM)
• Ensure compliance with historic district or HOA guidelines, where applicable
• Avoid illegal dumping, which is subject to fines and enforcement actions

Permit applications are available at Town Hall or online. For code enforcement questions, contact the Building Department.

Building Department
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1433
Official Website: Building Department

Recycling and Composting Options for Yard Waste in Pembroke

Pembroke encourages residents to participate in local recycling and composting programs to divert yard waste from landfills. The town operates a composting facility at the transfer station, where residents can drop off leaves, grass clippings, and brush for processing. Finished compost is often made available to residents for landscaping use. Additional recycling options include:

• Seasonal brush chipping events (check town calendar for dates)
• Mulch pickup for residents (subject to availability)
• Educational workshops on home composting
• Prohibition of burning yard waste (open burning is not permitted)
• Participation in regional composting initiatives supported by MassDEP

For more details on composting and recycling programs, visit the Pembroke Department of Public Works or the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Pembroke, MA?

• North Pembroke: Characterized by larger lots and mature trees, this area often generates significant leaf and branch debris. Access to the transfer station is convenient, but narrow rural roads may require smaller collection vehicles.
• Bryantville: With a mix of historic homes and newer developments, Bryantville residents must be mindful of local HOA restrictions on curbside yard waste placement and may need advance approval for large-scale removals.
• Pembroke Center: Dense residential neighborhoods with limited street parking can pose challenges for curbside collection. Residents are encouraged to use biodegradable bags and avoid blocking sidewalks.
• Hobomock: Known for its proximity to parks and conservation land, Hobomock generates high volumes of seasonal yard waste. Residents should check for special collection events and adhere to town composting guidelines.
• East Pembroke: This area features a combination of single-family homes and small farms. Larger debris loads may require direct drop-off at the transfer station, and driveway access should be kept clear for collection vehicles.
• Indian Head: With older housing stock and established landscaping, Indian Head often requires careful handling of brush and branches. Residents should verify collection schedules and avoid placing debris near storm drains.
• Silver Lake: Bordering the town’s water supply, Silver Lake neighborhoods must follow strict environmental guidelines for yard waste disposal to prevent runoff and protect water quality.